James Denato

James (Jim) Denato passed away on May 24, 2026, with his loving wife, Judy, at his side. A memorial Service for Jim will be held Saturday June 6, 2026, at St Andrews Lutheran Church 209 Colorado Ave, Ames, IA at 2:30pm. Visitation with the family will begin at 1:00pm until the time of service. He was born on September 17, 1945, in Albia, Iowa, to Joseph and Zella Denato, who made their home in Albia. Jim cheered on the Iowa State Cyclones and the Denver Broncos. After retirement, Jim and Judy spent time in their camper in Texas during the cold Iowa winters, where they made numerous close friendships. Jim had a great sense of humor with a twinkle in his eyes and a mischievous grin. Jim enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sports games. Jim is survived by his adoring wife Judy (of Ames); his loving kitty Cleo; his two loving sons Kevin (of Washington State) and Keith (of California); grandson Cody (of Arizona); stepdaughter Lynette Peterson (of Jefferson); grandchildren Hannah, Chance, and Victoria (all of Jefferson); sister-in-law Edie (Rod) Samuelson (of Johnston); and niece Alyssa (of Arizona). Jim is preceded in death by his parents; sisters Norma, L...[more]

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, Bertha, Betty, and Mary; brothers Quinto, Willie, Pete, Joe, Johnny, and Eddie; 3 siblings who died at birth; and stepdaughter Louise.